Ram’s Gate Winery – Sonoma, California

Last Saturday, I attended the opening celebration of a dear friend’s winery in Sonoma. The festive, no-expense spared occasion introduced the newest must-visit destination in Northern California’s Wine Country. Designed by famed Architect Howard Backen and Interior Designer Orlando Diaz-Azcuy, Ram’s Gate is a winery complemented by a strong culinary program led by former Executive Chef Jason Rose and Hospitality Manager, Marc Hartenfels who was formerly the GM of Benu. As for its inception, Ram’s Gate is the evolution of four esteemed partners including Jeff O’Neill, Peter Mullin, Michael John and Jeff Gaffner.

Ram’s Gate’s wines are led by Co-Founder Jeff O’Neill and Winemaker Jeff Gaffner. “The wine offerings will be comprised of small bottlings (average 300 cases or less) of mainly Pinot Noir and Chardonnay, as well as Syrah, Cabernet Sauvignon, and sparkling wine (Brut, Blanc de Noirs, and Rose). The wines showcase Sonoma County sites including Durell Vineyard, Hudson Vineyards, Ulises Valdez Vineyard and the winery’s own 30-acre estate vineyard, which is the southernmost planting region in Carneros,” says Ram’s Gate.

                Ram’s Gate Executive Chef Jason Rose (left)

The design is both gorgeous and spacious, blending both contemporary and rustic elements. So, next time you are in the area, “drop in for an impromptu tasting, enjoy a beautiful picnic overlooking the lake, reserve the private wine parlor for a wine and food pairing or celebrate an occasion over a wine dinner with friends,” echoes the folks at Ram’s Gate. After spending several hours tasting wines, roaming the property, and sampling the cuisine, I’d say cheers to that.

For more photos, visit our Ram’s Gate Winery album on Facebook.

Ram’s Gate Winery

28700 Arnold Dr

Sonoma, CA 95476

—–